One of the most frightening things that can happen on social media or anywhere online is seeing an intimate image of yourself posted without your consent or even created by AI without your knowledge.
First, know that this is illegal. Whether it was created by AI or a real image you gave to someone, no one has the right to share it without your permission.
Take these steps to report it and get support:
Collect evidence: screenshot or save the image along with any related comments or texts.
Report it to the platform: Report it to the platform you saw it on. Thanks to the Take It Down Act, they have 48 hours to remove the image once a victim notifies them, reducing the amount of time the image is in cyberspace. Provide details that this image is a non-consensual intimate image (NCII).
Do NOT pay blackmail money: Sometimes, criminals may ask for money to prevent an image from being shared or to take it down. This is “sextortion” and is also illegal. It is often a trap, as no matter how much money you pay, the criminal has no intention of taking it down or not sharing it. One amount most often leads to higher amounts. Save all relevant texts and chats as evidence. Remember, you are FOREVER Priceless!
Use online resources: https://stopncii.org/ and the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative https://cybercivilrights.org/ can help you get facts, support, and resources. The Revenge Porn Hotline 844-878-CCRI (2274) offers specialized support in this area.
Consult with local advocates: Consult with local law enforcement, attorneys, and victim advocates in your area. Look for those that have experience with cyber crimes.
Talk about it: Share your feelings about what you are going through with a trusted parent, friend, family member, therapist, counselor, or spiritual advisor. Sharing these images is a form of abuse. You deserve support and justice!
Limit sharing of images: Keep your photographs in private spaces online especially while you are a minor.